WHAT IS NMT?

Neuromuscular Therapy (NMT) is a precise application of hands on techniques for musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. It's focus is on treating body parts that hurt or for limitations of range of motion. Historically it's practice was developed in both Europe and America in the early 1900s, where independently an Osteopath and a few Chiropractors developed hands on methods to treat the soft tissue (muscles, tendons, ligaments and connective tissue) components of painful joint issues. As the practice evolved, it's had significant contributions from various physical rehabilitation specialists from around the world and is now most commonly practiced by Massage Therapists, Bodyworkers and Physical Therapists. 

​

NMT does utilize massage type techniques, but it differs from other types of massage in a couple of important ways. It is unlike relaxation massage in so far as it's purpose is not to create a generalized relaxation all over, but to address very specific problems related to  physical pain and loss of range of motion. In a typical NMT session, it is very uncommon that every part of the body is touched. Due to the specific nature of the techniques, to do so would be time prohibitive. NMT also differs from deep tissue massage. While some techniques within NMT require a depth of pressure in order to treat particular muscles, it's goal is to not just press deeply everywhere. NMT is more about precisely treating tissues related to someone's discomfort, and only applying deep palpation where it is required in order to make a positive change is symptoms or mobility. The skilled application of NMT requires significantly more training and study than either relaxation or deep tissue work and many clients express that they benefit from each style, stating that when they want to focus on a painful issue or mobility, NMT accomplishes this in a much superior way. When someone wants to zone out, relax and be massaged all over; other types of massage is preferred.